Guide to Selling

Look through a buyers eyes

We are so accustomed to our own homes that we frequently don’t see what other people will see on their first visit to a house. Spend a little time browsing other houses for sale online. Take note of what catches your eye in a good way and a bad way and then look through your own home with the same mentality. You might be surprised at what you see with fresh eyes!

De-Clutter

First impressions are important. The pictures used to launch your property to the market are this first impression so make the most of them! If rooms are too ‘busy’ and cluttered looking it will take away from their appeal. Yes, you may be selling your home but not your personal belongings. Try to put personal belongings behind closed doors – in cupboards, wardrobes, drawers.

  • Hallway
    • Clear away coats, umbrella’s schoolbags and shoes from the front hallway
    • Create a feeling of space by having as much clear floor space as possible on show.
  • Kitchen
    • Put things you don't really use on a daily basis in the attic or in storage.
    • Clear away everything from countertops in your kitchen – make sure your kitchen looks clean and clutter free.
    • Make sure your sink is clean & empty
    • Make sure tea towels & dishcloths are out of sight
    • Empty your bins
  • Bathrooms & Bedrooms
    • De-personalise these rooms as much as possible.
    • Hide all your personal products in your bathroom – have your sink clear & clean
    • Don’t leave any clothes or shoes on view in your bedroom
    • Clear your bedside lockers/dressing tables from personal items

Freshen Up

A fresh coat of neutral paint will bring a new lease of life to any room. Keep it simple but just this along with some de-cluttering can make a big change. Check your ceilings for water stains (fix the problem & repaint). To a nervous buyer, a damp stain caused by a minor leak in the past suggests potential problems and can raise alarm bells to your target market.

Don’t Forget About Outside

Your front door and driveway/garden are the first things buyers will see when they come to your house. Make sure your front door looks fresh & clean and if you have a doorbell make sure it works! People will ring it even though they don’t have to! If you have a rear garden, it is now seen as an additional room, so be sure to make your garden feels like a great space for entertaining and relaxing. Simple tips like mowing the lawn, keeping flower beds weed free and adding well stocked potted plants can make your outside space stand out from the crowd.

Clean Up

If you'd rather not re-decorate, it is still essential that your property is clean and smelling fresh before every viewing. Getting professional cleaners in at the start of your sales campaign can really make the place sparkle and will be money well-spent. A gleaming bathroom and kitchen are essential as buyers rate these as their most important rooms in the house. If you have pets make sure you air out the property prior to viewings. Use ‘plug-ins’, scented candles or fresh flowers for a clean, light scent.

Let there be light!

Open curtains and blinds for more light and while you’re at it, make sure windows are washed and curtains and blinds are clean and hung properly. In summer, natural light can create a wonderful atmosphere and give a feeling of freshness and cleanliness. In winter, make sure all the light bulbs are working and have lights switched on for viewings during the day. If you have a fireplace have the fire lit as it will create a homely ambiance to your potential buyer.

Preparing for Viewings

Sweep up the entrance to your property, and make sure the front garden and entrance hall to your property are tidy and inviting. Leave any pets with a neighbour or friend, and thoroughly clean up any pet hair, as many people can be allergic. Air out the house; and try not to smoke or cook spicy food before a viewing. Our agents will arrive early before a viewing to turn on the lights and the heating (if required). If you have a driveway, leave the space free for a potential buyer as this will add to the whole buying experience. If it is raining or snowing leave mats to the front and rear doors.